Music

The pastor, choir director, and organist work together to integrate music throughout worship at RPC.

The RPC chancel choir is made up of singers of varied musical experience. Many of the members sing in choruses in Riverdale and New York City. All of the members share a love of choral and sacred music. Choir director, Eva Carrasquero, has led the choir to new heights in musical presentation, with the offertory serving as an interlude for celebration, meditation, gratitude, and reflection.

The chancel choir rehearses every Sunday morning at 9:45  a.m. and sings during the collection of the offering in the worship service. The choir sings classical choral anthems, gospel music, and spirituals. They have also sung sacred harp pieces.

During the summer months the choir takes a break and church-goers are treated to special music offerings by our talented congregation.

Douglas Reed, RPC’s organist, brings a rich knowledge of the history of sacred music and its meditative value to our congregation. He also has a great love for incorporating jazz, contemporary classical, and other experimental forms into worship.

Doug organizes the Red Door Concert Series to share RPC’s acoustic resources with the community. Past concerts have featured such talents as the American Brass Quintet, Mikaela Bennet and Jazz Trio, pianist Garnet Unger, as well as congregation members Katherine Whyte (soprano), Jeffrey Mitchel (flute), and Doug himself on harpsichord and piano.